The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, has dismissed claims that members of the National Assembly were subservient to the executive arm of government.
Mr Jibrin dismissed the allegations on Wednesday in Ilorin while delivering the 15th convocation lecture of Al-Hikmah University titled “Managing Executive Legislative Relations Towards Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.”
He insisted that the existing cooperation was a deliberate effort to ensure good governance and attributed the cordial relationship between the executive and legislature to President Bola Tinubu’s experience as a former governor and senator.
According to him, this has enhanced mutual understanding between both arms of government.
Mr Jibrin said that President Tinubu’s familiarity with legislative processes had fostered effective communication and consultation.
He explained that proposed bills are often discussed with lawmakers before formal presentation, allowing for corrections and speedy passage.
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“This healthy collaboration has been misconstrued by some as the legislature being a rubber stamp of the executive.
“But when cooperation can deliver results for the nation, why resort to unnecessary conflict?” he asked.
The Deputy Senate President recalled that tensions between both arms of government were more pronounced at the onset of the Fourth Republic, largely due to the lingering effects of prolonged military rule.
He said that past presidents often exercised authority in a more directive manner, unlike the consultative approach adopted by the current administration.
The Senate Deputy President further said that sustained democracy required wisdom, restraint, and adherence to constitutional principles.
He said that Nigeria’s democratic longevity must be matched with deeper democratic practices.
Addressing the graduating students, Mr Jibrin urged them to uphold democratic values, demand accountability, and contribute positively to nation-building.
He stressed that democracy thrives not only on institutions, but also on enlightened citizens and principled leadership.
NAN
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